Abstract:
This data layer, which focuses on benthic communities, was developed as part of a cooperative project between the University of New Haven, the Connecticut DEP, and the U.S. Geological Survey. Benthic communities are an integral component of the ecology of Long Island Sound. Understanding the role that spatial heterogeneity plays in the dynamic of benthic landscapes may be a key to developing a ... better understanding of the estuarine ecology and the impacts of human activity. The purpose of providing this data layer is to help establish a regional framework for developing a more extensive GIS for benthic communities in Long Island Sound that can be used for education, research, and environmental management.

This GIS layer provides the location where samples were taken in a survey conducted by R.N. Reid, et al (1979).

Access Constraints
The University of New Haven and the U.S. Geological Survey must be referenced as the originator of the data set in any future products or as research derived from these data. Although this derived data set and its lineage dataset have been used by the University of New Haven and the USGS, no warranty, ... expressed or implied, is made by the University of New Haven or the USGS as to the accuracy of the data and/or related materials. The act of distribution shall not constitute any such warranty, and no responsibility is assumed by the University of New Haven or the USGS in the use of the data or related materials.